CONTINUE FROM THE FIRST ~~~~~~~(BOTH CATS AND DOGS)

Secondary Epilepsy and Seizures:

When a defect within the brain can be identified as the source of the abnormal impulses, we call the condition symptomatic or secondary epilepsy. Secondary seizures often occur when pressure within the brain is too high (intracranial pressure). They can also occur when the brain is inflammmed or when brain tumors are present. Things outside the brain can cause secondary epilepsy also. Things like overheating (hyperthermia), low blood glucose (hypoglycemia) , intestinal inflammation or liver and kidney failure. Poisons can also cause seizures.

Epilepsy In Cats

Idiopathic epilepsy is over 20 times as common in dogs as in cats. Unlike dogs, cats often have seizures because of acquired brain disease. Because many of these causes are progressive, the long-term prognosis for epileptic cats is not nearly as good as it is for dogs. But often these seizures can be controlled too. For more information on epilepsy in cats Please see our group Cats - R - Us

When In Life Does Epilepsy Usually Start And What Does It Look Like?

Most pets have their first seizures between 1 and 5 five years of age. During a seizure, the pet falls on its side with its legs outstretched and it’s back arched. Most pets maintain their legs rigidly extended but some paddle as if they were running. Pets may whine - although they are not in pain.

They often void their bowels and bladder. Their jaws are clenched during the first phase of the seizure. If only a portion of the body is affected the seizure is called afocal simple seizure or a partial seizure. These pets remain consciousness

Focal simple seizures or partial epilepsy are often misinterpreted as just quirky behavior. Sometimes muscles of the face just go into a jerky motion. Sometimes the pets appear to be snapping at invisible flies or chewing gum or running round and round in circles.

Frontal Lobe Epilepsy:

Some seizures affect portions of the pet's brain that control thought rather than motion. When an area of the brain that controls the conscious process is affected the seizure is called a psychomotorseizure or hallucination. In humans this form of seizure is called frontal lobe epilepsy. During this altered period of consciousness your pet may show fear, aggression, hyperactivity, or repetitive nonsensical behavior. Some pets hear imaginary noises.

NOTE: Your pet may bite or snap at you if you disturb it during one of these episodes.

Because so many areas of the brain can give rise to epileptic seizures, not two pets exhibit exactly the same signs. In some instances seizures will be a one-time episode never to occur again. In other pets the problem reoccurs at regular intervals of from every several days to several times a year. Common medications to treat epilepsy can damage your pet's liver over time. Only you, can decide if the number and severity of seizures your pet has, justify the risks of continuous medication.

Stages Of A Seizure:

A seizure event of epilepsy can be broken down into three distinct stages. It is an ancient disease, so the event has been divided in many ways using many terms.

The first stage is called the prodromal, or warning stage. This stage usually lasts several minutes but can be much longer. During this stage, the pet may have changes in mood and behavior. Some common signs are restlessness, wandering, pacing, licking, trembling and vomiting. In people with epilepsy, dogs have been trained to warn their owners during this stage that a seizure is eminent.

The next stage is called the ictus or ictical stage. This is the time of the seizure itself when the body is subject to uncontrolled movement and thrashing. During this stage, the pet is unconscious. Paddling or swimming movements, clenched teeth, and arched back are common during this stage. In cases where partial seizures occur, the pet may run in circles, and appear blind or deaf.

The final stage of an epileptic seizure is called the post ictal stage. This is the stage of gradual recovery. Dogs and cats in the post ictal stage appear dazed or hung over. They may bump into objects. These pets are exhausted and sleep a lot. They may have a blank expression or appear to stare out into space.